West Africa

Human Rights Watch has urged the Malian government to initiate a thorough and impartial inquiry into the tragic deaths of 22 men detained on May 12. The organization maintains these individuals fell victim to what they describe as "apparent extrajudicial executions." Eyewitness accounts reveal a harrowing scene: the bodies were discovered with their throats cut, buried in two shallow graves. The men were apprehended during a military operation in a town situated along the Niger River, an area often characterized by its…

Garowe (AX) — In a recent high-level meeting held in Garowe, the United Nations took a significant step by urging the Northeastern State authorities to prioritize human rights protections amid ongoing security operations targeting the Islamic State-linked militant group in northeastern Somalia. This plea underscores the delicate balance between ensuring safety and maintaining the dignity of individual rights in a region grappling with ongoing turmoil. The gathering featured prominent figures, notably Northeastern State's…

Garowe (AX) – In a significant development in the ongoing battle against extremism, Northeastern State security forces recently achieved a crucial victory by eliminating Ahmed Muse Sidi, a high-ranking leader of the Islamic State (ISIS). This operation took place in the Togga Miiraale area of the Bari region, as confirmed by local officials on Tuesday. Abdifitax Mohamed Nur, the Minister of State for the Presidency of Northeastern State, elaborated on the impact of this decisive action during an interview with BBC Somali.…

In a significant development for international relations, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) recently delivered a ruling concerning the islands of Mbanie, Conga, and Cocoteros. These tiny, sparsely populated landmasses now officially rest under the sovereignty of Equatorial Guinea, a resolution that puts a close to a territorial disagreement that has lasted for decades with Gabon. While these islands may seem inconsequential at first glance, they lie in waters believed to be rich in oil and gas reserves, a detail that…

The Landscape of Government Debt in Africa: A Deeper Look Borrowing is often seen as a lifeline in the complex world of economics. When used wisely, it fuels growth, supports essential services, and can bolster a country's financial stability. However, this financial instrument becomes problematic when a nation’s general government debt surpasses the size of its economy. One may wonder: at what point does this borrowing become a burden rather than a boon? The ratio of general government debt to Gross Domestic…

**Beledweyne (AX)** – In a remarkable development, Abdi Dahir Guure Karoore, the Minister of Interior of Hirshabelle State, has made a bold announcement: the Somali National Army (SNA) and local defense fighters have encircled the strategic town of Aden Yabaal in the Middle Shabelle region and are gearing up for an imminent entrance into this pivotal location. Just days ago, Aden Yabaal was under the control of the notorious Al-Shabaab, a group that has long plagued Somalia with its violent insurgency. However, the tide is…

Mogadishu (AX) – On a remarkable Monday, the vibrant city of Mogadishu welcomed its new guest, the newly appointed UK Ambassador to Somalia, Charles Nicholas King. As he stepped onto Somali soil, King officially began his mission, representing the United Kingdom in this fascinating yet complex region of the Horn of Africa. As he takes on this important role, one can’t help but ponder: What does this transition mean not only for the diplomatic landscape but for the everyday lives of Somali citizens? Having been appointed in…

In recent discussions about cost reduction initiatives, one example that stands out is Nigeria's Dangote Refinery, which has made headlines by cutting prices. Yet, many African nations are still grappling with the persistent challenge of soaring diesel costs. The implications of these high prices extend far beyond mere numbers on a fuel pump; they ripple throughout entire economies, impacting everything from agriculture to transportation. Diesel serves as the lifeblood for numerous sectors, including…

Mogadishu (AX) – On Tuesday morning, a tense atmosphere enveloped the already bustling streets of Mogadishu as at least six mortar shells were fired toward the heavily fortified Halane Base Camp. This area is not just a military site; it is home to United Nations offices, African Union personnel, and numerous Western diplomatic missions. Its strategic significance makes it a focal point in Somalia's ongoing struggle for stability. Witnesses near Aden Adde International Airport described a shocking scene, reporting that…

In recent months, Ghana has found itself mired in a complex and contentious dispute with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) over a sizable debt of $768.4 million. This situation comes on the heels of a challenging debt restructuring process that the country has been navigating. The backdrop is certainly tense. The Ghanaian Finance Ministry is advocating for the treatment of the Afreximbank loan to mirror other debts it has successfully restructured. These include a mix of bilateral loans from China and…